BAGHDAD: The Iraqi government announced on Sunday that it had suspended the popular messaging application Telegram across the country, citing “national security” concerns. The move has drawn criticism from channels closely aligned with pro-Iran factions.
The suspension of Telegram took effect by midday on Sunday, with users in Baghdad reporting that new messages were not loading. However, the application remained accessible to those using virtual private networks (VPNs).
Iraq’s Ministry of Communications justified the decision, stating that it was in compliance with “directives from higher authorities related to national security”. The ministry also argued that the suspension was necessary to “protect the personal data of citizens, which is violated by the application”.
Telegram Failed to Respond to Requests
According to the government, Telegram failed to respond to repeated requests to address the issue of “data leakage from state institutions and individuals, which poses a threat to national security and social peace.”
Telegram is widely used in Iraq and is known to serve as a platform for propaganda by groups associated with armed factions and pro-Iran political parties.
One channel, with over 330,000 subscribers, condemned Iraq’s decision to suspend Telegram, accusing the government, backed by pro-Iran parties, of stifling free speech and “confiscating freedoms”.
Iraq has seen relative stability in recent years but has faced criticism from NGOs and activists for curbing freedom of expression. Last month, Amnesty International expressed concern about draft legislation being considered by the Iraqi government that could severely restrict freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
Telegram has faced blocks in other countries in the past. In Brazil, the messaging app was suspended in April for failing to provide data on neo-Nazi groups on its platform. The decision was overturned on appeal after two days.
